10 Within 10 Recognition

Major: Health administration

Job title and employer: Director of hospital operations, UCLA Health.

Current city and state: Los Angeles, CA

Hometown: Goodrich

What is your favorite memory of CMU?

During my senior year at CMU, I was able to join Professor James Johnson on a study abroad trip to San Ignacio, Belize. The trip was my first international experience and helped highlight key similarities and nuances with people from other cultures. It taught me about public health and health delivery, and it served as a bedrock for my future interests. The trip also introduced me to many passionate and inspirational CMU students who I was proud to count as classmates.

What has been your coolest moment since graduation?

Between my first and second years of graduate school at Yale University, I was able to briefly live in Stevenage, England – roughly 30 miles north of London – while working for the National Health Service (NHS). As a master of public health student in health care management, I was fascinated by how a country like England could provide health care services to their entire country in an equitable and efficient manner. Beyond the professional learnings, my weekend jaunts to London, Cambridge, Oxford, and more all provided enriching experiences that I continue to reflect upon.

What are you proudest of?

I am most proud of securing an administrative fellowship position at UCLA Health after graduating with my master's degree. Administrative fellowships are one- to two-year advanced leadership training programs for health care administrators following graduate school. Since I was a 19-year-old sophomore at CMU, my health administration professors had encouraged my classmates and me to set short- and long-term career goals. For many years, attaining an administrative fellowship was my short-term career goal. To be offered this sort of opportunity – and following competitive recruitment – from UCLA Health was an incredibly proud moment.

What advice would you give to new graduates?

While there is not a single path or monolith for what success will look like, I would share three pieces of advice with new graduates. First, I would encourage graduates to find a long-term mentor – ideally someone who has trusted challenges their thoughts and beliefs, and values your success. Second, I would encourage graduates to become comfortable in ambiguity. Often, personal growth and discovery occur outside of our comfort zones. Finally, while pouring yourself into your profession is important, it shouldn't be the only thing. Value your relationships, hobbies, and personal growth too.

What has your work life taught you?

While technical skills are important, your success will often be determined by your ability to build relationships, communicate and appreciate the contributions of others.

What about CMU helped you succeed?

CMU provided me with some of my earliest and best mentors who supported my success. The College of Health Professions and faculty of the health administration department are stellar in this regard. Personally, and professionally, they encouraged me to set ambitious goals and developed some of the early skills needed to get there.

Current city and state: Los Angeles, CA

Current job title and employer:  Director of Hospital Operations at UCLA Health